Translation guide
The most common and general word for 'lizard' in Japanese is トカゲ. There are also specific terms for certain types of lizards, such as geckos and skinks.
Referring to a typical small lizard, such as those found in gardens or as pets.
The standard word for 'lizard'. Can be written in kanji as 蜥蜴, but katakana is more common in everyday use.
庭にトカゲがいた。
There was a lizard in the garden.
トカゲをペットとして飼っている。
I keep a lizard as a pet.
Specifically referring to a gecko, a type of lizard often found on walls.
The word for 'gecko'. Literally means 'house protector', as they are considered good luck. Often seen on walls at night.
壁にヤモリが張り付いている。
A gecko is clinging to the wall.
Referring to a skink, a type of lizard with smooth, shiny scales and often short legs.
In everyday language, skinks are often just called トカゲ. There is no widely used specific term.
あのトカゲは足が短いね。
That lizard has short legs, doesn't it?
The loanword for 'skink', used mainly in scientific or pet trade contexts.
スキンクの飼育方法を調べる。
I research how to care for skinks.
Referring to a large lizard, such as a monitor lizard or iguana.
Literally 'large lizard', used for monitor lizards and similar large species.
動物園でオオトカゲを見た。
I saw a monitor lizard at the zoo.
The loanword for 'iguana', commonly understood.
Iguanas get big.